Another legend leaves: Andrea Goldstein, Milan’s first great outfielder
A day of profound sadness for the world of Italian baseball, which mourns the passing of two icons of Milano Baseball: Ivan Guerci and Andrea Goldsteinwho passed away at the age of 87. Goldstein, affectionately nicknamed “the Bear” for his gruff but loyal character, was one of the most illustrious protagonists in rossoblù history, embodying the philosophy and spirit of the club with his style and passion. First historical base of Milan of the InvinciblesGoldstein left an indelible mark as both a player and a youth coach, guiding generations of young athletes and instilling in them a passion for baseball.
The beginnings and the great season of the first championships
Goldstein’s history in Milano Baseball begins in 1957when he joined the first team together with the Balzani brothers. A product of the Ambrosiana academy, the team coached by Lou Campo, or as he was respectfully called “Doctor Campo”, Goldstein immediately stood out for his batting power and defensive skills. From his entry into the team, his rise to success was immediate: he won the Scudetto already in 1958 and, in a few years, he became a cornerstone of the team that dominated the Italian championship.
It’s over the years 1961 e 1962 that Goldstein reaches the pinnacle of his playing career. With the Milano degli Invincibili, a team that triumphed in the championship without losing a single game, Goldstein was the starting first baseman in 31 of 36 games, marking the golden era of Milanese baseball. «Bolocan on asphalt, Goldstein on clay», as he liked to say, was a giant, not only for his physical prowess but also for his fundamental contribution to that extraordinary season.
The international triumphs and the historic victory against the Netherlands
With 116 appearances and 15 home runs in the rossoblù jersey, Goldstein not only represents one of the most complete players on the national scene, but also stands out on an international level. In the 1958 he debuted in the national team with a home run against Germany at the European Championships and, the following year, he signed one of the historic moments of Italian baseball: the first win against Holland in Utrecht, which ended 8-3 thanks to home runs by Bob Gandini, Giulio Glorioso and Goldstein himself. This match represented a milestone, highlighting Italy’s growth and competitiveness on the European scene.
The exceptional “cycle” and the farewell to the field
Andrea Goldstein’s career is full of successes, one of the most memorable is certainly his “cycle” – one of the rarest feats in baseball, accomplished during a game against Neptune in 1961. Together with Bob Gandini and David Sheldon, Goldstein managed to complete a “cycle”, that is, to score a single, a double, a triple and a home run in a single game, thus sealing his technical mastery and versatility in attack.
After dominating the diamond for a decade, in 1967 Goldstein retires from the field, leaving first base to younger players. However, the bond with baseball and Milan was too strong to move away from completely, and shortly thereafter he would return, this time as a youth coach.
The role of coach: an educator with a “bear” character
Despite his shy and gruff character, Goldstein managed to pass on his passion for baseball to generations of young athletes. For more than twenty years, he worked as Milan’s youth coach, helping to train some of the club’s best talents. With his severe yet paternal figure, Goldstein became a point of reference for many kids, who still remember him fondly today.
The legacy of a “gruff” champion and his rare public appearances
True to his reserved nature, Goldstein rarely attended club events and celebrations. He preferred to keep a low profile, remaining aloof and declining most invitations to parties and gatherings. However, the “Bear” of Milan never failed to appear in the stands on important occasions, masked among the fans, to follow the matches and support, even from afar, the team he loved so much. After all, he himself considered himself part of the “DNA” of Milano Baseball, a spiritual founder of the spirit that still animates the club today.
A career full of records and values, which leaves an indelible mark
The farewell to Goldstein represents the passing of one of the key figures of Milanese baseball. In addition to the successes and statistics that remember him as a great champion – 116 appearances, 15 home runs and a place of honor in the rossoblù history – what will remain imprinted are the values he transmitted: the dedication, passion and humility of who has always played not for the spotlight, but for the love of the game.
The entire Italian baseball community today remembers Andrea Goldstein as a loyal man, a champion on and off the field, and an example for all the young people who were lucky enough to know him. His teaching, as well as his rigor and desire to improve, represent the most precious legacy he leaves to the world of baseball.
Goodbye, Andrea. Your absence leaves a great void, but the memories of your exploits, your teachings and your matches will continue to live in the memory of those who shared the pitch with you and of those you trained with your experience.
